Ganesha

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e-book : for

e-book : for free circulationfree circulation

Ganesha

By

Tamarapu Sampath Kumaran

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Introduction: Introduction:

Ganesha

Ganesha is a popular figure in Indian Art. is a popular figure in Indian Art. Unlike other deities, representations of Ganesha showUnlike other deities, representations of Ganesha show wide variations and distinct patterns changing over time. He

wide variations and distinct patterns changing over time. He may be portrayed standing, dancinmay be portrayed standing, dancing,g, heroically taking action against demons, pla

heroically taking action against demons, playing with his family as a boy, sitting down or on ying with his family as a boy, sitting down or on anan elevated seat, or engaging in a range of contemporary situations.

elevated seat, or engaging in a range of contemporary situations.

Ganesha

Ganesha —

—

the elephant-deity riding a mouse the elephant-deity riding a mouse

—

has been popularly associated with Hinduism. has been popularly associated with Hinduism. This not only suggests the importance of Ganesha,

This not only suggests the importance of Ganesha, but also shows how popular and pbut also shows how popular and pervasiveervasive this deity is in the minds of the masses.

this deity is in the minds of the masses.

Ganesha

Ganesha images were prevalent in man images were prevalent in many parts of India, by the 6th cy parts of India, by the 6th century. In the standardentury. In the standard configuration, Ganesha typically holds an axe or a goad in one upper arm and a noose in the configuration, Ganesha typically holds an axe or a goad in one upper arm and a noose in the other upper arm. The influence of

other upper arm. The influence of this old constellation of iconographic elements can this old constellation of iconographic elements can still bestill be seen in contemporary representations of Ganesha. In on

seen in contemporary representations of Ganesha. In on e modern form, the one modern form, the only variation fromly variation from these old elements is that the lower-right hand doe

these old elements is that the lower-right hand doe s not hold the broken tusk s not hold the broken tusk but rather is turnedbut rather is turned toward the viewer in a ge

toward the viewer in a gesture of protection or fearlessness (abhaya mudra). The samesture of protection or fearlessness (abhaya mudra). The same combination of four arms and attributes occurs in statues of Gan

combination of four arms and attributes occurs in statues of Gan esha dancing, which is a veresha dancing, which is a veryy popular theme.

popular theme.

‖‖

Vinayaka" Vinayaka"

This e-book is being presented on

This e-book is being presented on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. I expthe occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. I express my grateful thanksress my grateful thanks to Google and to all the

to Google and to all the authors from whose works I borrowed authentic information inauthors from whose works I borrowed authentic information in compiling this book, and dedicate it to

compiling this book, and dedicate it to Sri Varasiddhi Vallabha Maha Ganapathi of BesantSri Varasiddhi Vallabha Maha Ganapathi of Besant Nagar, Chennai.

Nagar, Chennai.

Tamarapu Sampath Kumaran Tamarapu Sampath Kumaran

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Ganesha

Ganesha, also known as, also known asGanapatiGanapati,,VinayakaVinayaka, and, andPillaiyarPillaiyar, is one of the deities best-known, is one of the deities best-known and most widely worshipped in the Hindu pantheon. His image is found throughout India and and most widely worshipped in the Hindu pantheon. His image is found throughout India and Nepal, and Devotion to Ganesha is widely diffused and extends too many forms.

Nepal, and Devotion to Ganesha is widely diffused and extends too many forms. Ganesha

Ganesha is a word compounded from the is a word compounded from the Sanskrit wordSanskrit word gana gana, meaning "the hosts," "multitudes", meaning "the hosts," "multitudes" or "troops" of demigods, especially the retinue of

or "troops" of demigods, especially the retinue of Lord Siva under the rule oLord Siva under the rule of Ganesha, andf Ganesha, and Isha Isha,, "ruler," "lord" or "sovereign." This is virtually synonymous with the name

"ruler," "lord" or "sovereign." This is virtually synonymous with the name Ganapati,Ganapati, "master of "master of the hosts." As Ganapati, Lord Ganesha is th

the hosts." As Ganapati, Lord Ganesha is the leader of thee leader of the ganas, ganas, ruling over the celestial hosts, ruling over the celestial hosts, over the benign as well a

over the benign as well as the malevolent inner-plane beings. He cons the malevolent inner-plane beings. He controls them by strategy andtrols them by strategy and intelligence. We follow the path of Lord Ganesha

intelligence. We follow the path of Lord Ganesha when we resort to discrimination and when we resort to discrimination and sagacitysagacity to resolve our difficulties, when we proceed past o

to resolve our difficulties, when we proceed past o bstacles in a slow, prudent and bstacles in a slow, prudent and well-plannedwell-planned manner. Lord Ganesha is not in

manner. Lord Ganesha is not in a hurry. He is cautious. He is patient, willing to a hurry. He is cautious. He is patient, willing to wait the rightwait the right time for events to take place.

time for events to take place.

As Vighneshvara, Lord Ganesha is Lord of

As Vighneshvara, Lord Ganesha is Lord of Obstacles, creating difficulties and obstructions if theObstacles, creating difficulties and obstructions if the time is wrong for us to proceed an

time is wrong for us to proceed and removing those same obstacles when od removing those same obstacles when our success is assured.ur success is assured. It is to Vighneshvara that we supplicate before we undertake a task, plan a change in our life or It is to Vighneshvara that we supplicate before we undertake a task, plan a change in our life or begin the worship any of the other Gods.

begin the worship any of the other Gods.

As Ekadanta, Lord Ganesha is the Single-Tusked One, the Patron of Literature who, when all As Ekadanta, Lord Ganesha is the Single-Tusked One, the Patron of Literature who, when all others failed, Himself undertook to scribe the great epic,

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Vyasa., with his broken tusk. He

Vyasa., with his broken tusk. He offers us here the lesson in life that knowledge anoffers us here the lesson in life that knowledge an d dharma ared dharma are of utmost importance, worth sacrificing even pride and b

of utmost importance, worth sacrificing even pride and b eauty to attain.eauty to attain. As Siddhidata, Lord Ganesha is the Giver o

As Siddhidata, Lord Ganesha is the Giver of Success associated with bountiful harvests andf Success associated with bountiful harvests and general abundance in life.

general abundance in life. It is said that Lord Ganesha is the material manifestation of theIt is said that Lord Ganesha is the material manifestation of the manas,manas, or mind, of Lord Siva, an

or mind, of Lord Siva, and that He embodies the five elements d that He embodies the five elements -- earth, air, fire, water and ether - earth, air, fire, water and ether -- and guides the elemental forces that produce and maintain order in the universe.

- and guides the elemental forces that produce and maintain order in the universe. The

The Mudgala Purana, Mudgala Purana, an ancient text o an ancient text on Lord Ganesha, cites eight forms of Ganesha, n Lord Ganesha, cites eight forms of Ganesha, prevailingprevailing over eight human weaknesses. Ekadanta is the Conqueror of Moda- arrogance. Dhumravarna over eight human weaknesses. Ekadanta is the Conqueror of Moda- arrogance. Dhumravarna (smoke colored) overcomes Abhimana, - pride; Vakratunda

(smoke colored) overcomes Abhimana, - pride; Vakratunda (curved trunk) is the Vanquisher of(curved trunk) is the Vanquisher of Matsarya, - jealousy; Mahodara (big belly) is Lord of

Matsarya, - jealousy; Mahodara (big belly) is Lord of Moha, - infatuation; Gajanana (elephantMoha, - infatuation; Gajanana (elephant face) conquers Lobha, - greed; Lambodara (corpulent belly) overcomes Krodha, - anger; Vikata face) conquers Lobha, - greed; Lambodara (corpulent belly) overcomes Krodha, - anger; Vikata (deformed) conquers Kama, - lust; Vighnaraja (King of Obstacles) prevails over Mamata

(deformed) conquers Kama, - lust; Vighnaraja (King of Obstacles) prevails over Mamata --egotism. So now we can

egotism. So now we can see that our Loving Ganesha see that our Loving Ganesha is "there" for even the lowest of the is "there" for even the lowest of the low,low, that there is hope for everyone, and

that there is hope for everyone, and that there really is "no intrinsic evil," only a sethat there really is "no intrinsic evil," only a se emingeming variation of the past containing all that has to

variation of the past containing all that has to be learned to live and be learned to live and grow from a young soul to angrow from a young soul to an older one and then mature. He is "there for us." Yes, there is hope for all, and none are damned older one and then mature. He is "there for us." Yes, there is hope for all, and none are damned forever. It is our loving Ganesha who eventu

forever. It is our loving Ganesha who eventually introduces us to His brother, our Lovingally introduces us to His brother, our Loving Murugan; the God Who sits upon the

Murugan; the God Who sits upon the manipuramanipura chakra, center of willpower chakra, center of willpower .. Vinayaka

Vinayaka

is a common name for Ganesha that appears in the Purā

nas and in Buddhist Tantras.nas and in Buddhist Tantras. This name is reflected in the naming of

This name is reflected in the naming of the eight famous Ganesha temples in the eight famous Ganesha temples in Maharashtra knownMaharashtra known as t

as the Asthe Asthavinayak. havinayak. The namesThe names VighneshaVighnesha (Lord of Obstacles) refers to his primary function in (Lord of Obstacles) refers to his primary function in Hindu mythology as the master and remover of obstacles. Although he is known by many other Hindu mythology as the master and remover of obstacles. Although he is known by many other attributes, Ganesha's elephant head makes him

attributes, Ganesha's elephant head makes him easy to identify. Ganesha is widely revered as theeasy to identify. Ganesha is widely revered as the Remover of Obstacles and more generall

Remover of Obstacles and more generally as Lord of Beginnings and Lord y as Lord of Beginnings and Lord of Obstaclesof Obstacles

Vighnesha

Vighnesha andand VighneshvaraVighneshvara

Ganesha emerged a distinct deity in clearly recognizable form in the 4th and 5th centuries CE, Ganesha emerged a distinct deity in clearly recognizable form in the 4th and 5th centuries CE, during the Gupta period, although h

during the Gupta period, although he inherited traits from Vedic and pre-Vedic precursors. Hise inherited traits from Vedic and pre-Vedic precursors. His popularity rose quickly, and he was formally included among the five primary deities in the 9th popularity rose quickly, and he was formally included among the five primary deities in the 9th

century. A sect of devotees called the

century. A sect of devotees called the GanapathyaGanapathya, who identified Ganesha as the supreme deity,, who identified Ganesha as the supreme deity, arose during this period. The principal scriptures dedicated to

arose during this period. The principal scriptures dedicated to Ganesha are theGanesha are the Ganesha purana,Ganesha purana, Mudgala purana

Mudgala purana and and Ganapathi Atharvashira.Ganapathi Atharvashira. A prominent name for Ganesha in

A prominent name for Ganesha in Tamil isTamil is Pille Pille or or Pillaiyar Pillaiyar (Little Child). It is referred (Little Child). It is referred pille pille means a "child" while

means a "child" while pillaiyar pillaiyar means a "noble child". means a "noble child". It is also referred that the wordsIt is also referred that the words pallu pallu,, pella

pella, and, and pell pell in the Dravidian language signify "tooth or tusk of an elephant", but more in the Dravidian language signify "tooth or tusk of an elephant", but more generally "elephant", and root word

generally "elephant", and root word pille pille in the name in the name Pillaiyar Pillaiyar might have originally meant "the might have originally meant "the young of the elephant", because the pali word

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Buddhi: Buddhi:

Ganesha is considered to be the Lord of letters and learning. The concept of

Ganesha is considered to be the Lord of letters and learning. The concept of buddhibuddhi is closely is closely associated with the personality of Ganesha, especially in the

associated with the personality of Ganesha, especially in the Puranic period, when manPuranic period, when many storiesy stories stress his cleverness and love of intelligence. In S

stress his cleverness and love of intelligence. In S anskrit, the word Buddhi is a feminine nounanskrit, the word Buddhi is a feminine noun that is variously translated as intelligence, wisdom, or intellect. One of

that is variously translated as intelligence, wisdom, or intellect. One of Ganesha's names in theGanesha's names in the Ganesha purana

Ganesha purana and and Ganesha SahasranamaGanesha Sahasranama is is Buddhipriya Buddhipriya The word The word priya priya can mean "fond of", can mean "fond of", and in a marital context it can mean "lover" or "husband", so the name may mean either "Fond of and in a marital context it can mean "lover" or "husband", so the name may mean either "Fond of Intelligence" or "Buddhi's Husband".

Intelligence" or "Buddhi's Husband".

Aum Aum::

Ganesha is identified with the Hindu mantra Aum

Ganesha is identified with the Hindu mantra Aum or Om. The termor Om. The term omom

kārasvarūpa

(Aum is his (Aum is his form), when identified with Ganesha, refers to the notion

form), when identified with Ganesha, refers to the notion that he personifies the primal sound.that he personifies the primal sound. The

The Ganapathi AtharvashirsaGanapathi Atharvashirsa attests to this association, which refers to as under attests to this association, which refers to as under (O Lord Ganapati!) You are (the Trinity) Brahma Vishnu

(O Lord Ganapati!) You are (the Trinity) Brahma Vishnu and Maheswara. You are and Maheswara. You are Indra andIndra and You are Agni and You are the sun and the moon You are (the three worlds) Bhuloka [earth], You are Agni and You are the sun and the moon You are (the three worlds) Bhuloka [earth], Antariksha-loka [space], and Swargaloka [heaven]. You

Antariksha-loka [space], and Swargaloka [heaven]. You are Om. (That is to say, You are are Om. (That is to say, You are allall this).

this).

Some devotees see similarities between the shape of Ganesha

Some devotees see similarities between the shape of Ganesha 's body in iconography and 's body in iconography and thethe shape of Aum in the Devanagari and Tamil scripts.

shape of Aum in the Devanagari and Tamil scripts.

First Chakra: First Chakra:

According to Kundalini yoga Ganesh

According to Kundalini yoga Ganesha resides in the first Chakra called Muladhara.a resides in the first Chakra called Muladhara. Mula Mula means means "original, main";

"original, main"; adharaadhara means "base, foundation". The muladhara chakra is the principle on means "base, foundation". The muladhara chakra is the principle on which the manifestation or outward expansion of

which the manifestation or outward expansion of primordial Divine Force rests. This associationprimordial Divine Force rests. This association is also attested to in the

is also attested to in the Ganapati AtharvashirsaGanapati Atharvashirsa. Ganesha holds, supports and guides . Ganesha holds, supports and guides all otherall other chakras, thereby "governing the forces that propel the wheel of life.

chakras, thereby "governing the forces that propel the wheel of life. A legend explains why Ganesha

A legend explains why Ganesha is worshipped before any other deitis worshipped before any other deity or prior to any importanty or prior to any important event. It happened that Shiva asked Kartikeya and Ganesha to circle the world and return. event. It happened that Shiva asked Kartikeya and Ganesha to circle the world and return. Kartikeya hurried off on his peacock, but Ganesha walked around Shiva and Parvati. Kartikeya hurried off on his peacock, but Ganesha walked around Shiva and Parvati.

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He explained that for him, his parents constituted the world. Pleased, Shiva He explained that for him, his parents constituted the world. Pleased, Shiva granted him a boon, saying that before undertaking any important task, people would pray to granted him a boon, saying that before undertaking any important task, people would pray to Ganesha.

Ganesha.

According to the

According to the Narasimha Purana Narasimha Purana, if he is not worshipped at the , if he is not worshipped at the beginning of a ceremonbeginning of a ceremony, hey, he creates obstacles for the performers. Therefore, no matter what the oc

creates obstacles for the performers. Therefore, no matter what the oc casion or ceremony be,casion or ceremony be, Ganesha is worshipped before all other deities. Fo

Ganesha is worshipped before all other deities. Fo r this reason, he is called Vighneshwara, ther this reason, he is called Vighneshwara, the remover of all obstacles. Ganesha's mouse, by gn

remover of all obstacles. Ganesha's mouse, by gnawing its way through everything, is said toawing its way through everything, is said to symbolise the god's ability to destroy all obstacles.

symbolise the god's ability to destroy all obstacles.

Mythology:

Birth of Ganesha: Birth of Ganesha:

There are many stories of Lord Ganesha reg

There are many stories of Lord Ganesha regarding his origin and various others which tell aboutarding his origin and various others which tell about

the nature and traits of his character.

The most well-known story is probably the one taken from the

The most well-known story is probably the one taken from the Siva purana.Siva purana. Once, his mother Once, his mother Parvati wanted to take a bath, and since there were no attendants around to guard and stop Parvati wanted to take a bath, and since there were no attendants around to guard and stop

anyone from accidentally entering the house, she created an image of a boy out of turmeric paste anyone from accidentally entering the house, she created an image of a boy out of turmeric paste

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and infused life into it, and thus Ganesha was born. Parvati ordered Ganesha not to allow anyone and infused life into it, and thus Ganesha was born. Parvati ordered Ganesha not to allow anyone to enter the house, and

to enter the house, and Ganesha obediently followed his mother's orders. After a while ShGanesha obediently followed his mother's orders. After a while Sh ivaiva returned from outside, and as he tried to enter the house, Ganesha stopped him. Shiva was returned from outside, and as he tried to enter the house, Ganesha stopped him. Shiva was infuriated at this strange little boy who dared to

infuriated at this strange little boy who dared to challenge him. He told Ganesha challenge him. He told Ganesha that he wasthat he was Parvati's husband, and demanded that Ganesha let him go in. But Ganesha would not hear any Parvati's husband, and demanded that Ganesha let him go in. But Ganesha would not hear any person's word other than his dear mother's. Shiva lost his patience and had a fierce battle with person's word other than his dear mother's. Shiva lost his patience and had a fierce battle with

Ganesha. At last he severed Ganesh

Ganesha. At last he severed Ganesha's head with his trishula. When Parvati came a's head with his trishula. When Parvati came out and sawout and saw her son's lifeless body, she was very angry

her son's lifeless body, she was very angry and sad. She demanded and sad. She demanded that Shiva restore Ganesha'sthat Shiva restore Ganesha's life at once.

life at once.

Unfortunately, Shiva's trishula was so powerful that it had hurled Gan

Unfortunately, Shiva's trishula was so powerful that it had hurled Gan esha's head very far off.esha's head very far off. All attempts to find the head were in

All attempts to find the head were in vain. As a last resort, Shiva approachvain. As a last resort, Shiva approached Brahma whoed Brahma who suggested that he replace Ganesha's head

suggested that he replace Ganesha's head with the first living being that came his wawith the first living being that came his way which layy which lay with its head facing north. Shiva

with its head facing north. Shiva then sent his celestial armies Gana to find and then sent his celestial armies Gana to find and take the head oftake the head of whatever creature they happened to find asleep with its head facing north. They found an

whatever creature they happened to find asleep with its head facing north. They found an elephant which slept in this manner, and took its head. Shiva attaching the elephant's head to elephant which slept in this manner, and took its head. Shiva attaching the elephant's head to Ganesha's body brought him back to life. From then on, he was called

Ganesha's body brought him back to life. From then on, he was calledGanapathiGanapathi, head of the, head of the celestial armies, and was to be worshipped by everyone before beginning any activity.

celestial armies, and was to be worshipped by everyone before beginning any activity.

Shiva and Gajasura Shiva and Gajasura

Another story regarding the origins of Ganesha and

Another story regarding the origins of Ganesha and his elephant head narrates that, once, his elephant head narrates that, once, therethere existed an Asura (demon) with all the characteristics of an el

existed an Asura (demon) with all the characteristics of an el ephant, called Gajasura, who ephant, called Gajasura, who waswas undergoing a penitence or

undergoing a penitence or tapas. Shiva, satisfied by this austerity, decided to tapas. Shiva, satisfied by this austerity, decided to grant him, as agrant him, as a reward, whatever gift he desired. The demon

reward, whatever gift he desired. The demon wished that he could emanate wished that he could emanate fire continually fromfire continually from his own body so that no one could ever dare to approach him. The Lord granted him his request. his own body so that no one could ever dare to approach him. The Lord granted him his request. Gajasura continued his penitence and

Gajasura continued his penitence and Shiva, who appeared in Shiva, who appeared in front of him from time to time,front of him from time to time, asked him once again what he desired. The demon responded: "I desire that You inhabit my asked him once again what he desired. The demon responded: "I desire that You inhabit my stomach." Shiva is also known as

stomach." Shiva is also known as Bhola Shankara Bhola Shankara because he is a deity easily propitiated; and because he is a deity easily propitiated; and when he is satisfied with a devotee,

when he is satisfied with a devotee, he grants him whatever he desires, and he grants him whatever he desires, and this, from time tothis, from time to time, generates particularly intricate situations.

time, generates particularly intricate situations.

Shiva granted even this request and he took up residence in the demon's stomach. In fact, Parvati Shiva granted even this request and he took up residence in the demon's stomach. In fact, Parvati not able to trace her husband, sought the assistance of Vishnu. Then Vishnu, the omniscient not able to trace her husband, sought the assistance of Vishnu. Then Vishnu, the omniscient director of the cosmic game, staged a

director of the cosmic game, staged a small comedy. He transformed Nandi, the small comedy. He transformed Nandi, the bull of Shiva,bull of Shiva, into a dancing bull and

into a dancing bull and conducted him in front of conducted him in front of Gajasura, assuming, at the same time, theGajasura, assuming, at the same time, the appearance of a flutist. The ench

appearance of a flutist. The enchanting performance of the bull sent the anting performance of the bull sent the demon into ecstasies,demon into ecstasies, and he asked the

and he asked the flutist to tell him what he desired. The musical Vishnua responded: flutist to tell him what he desired. The musical Vishnua responded: "Can you"Can you give me that which I ask?

give me that which I ask?" Gajasura replied: "Who do you take me " Gajasura replied: "Who do you take me for? I can immediately givefor? I can immediately give you whatever you ask."

you whatever you ask." The flutist then said: "If that's so, liberate Shiva from your stomach."The flutist then said: "If that's so, liberate Shiva from your stomach." Gajasura understood then that this must have

Gajasura understood then that this must have been no other than Vishnu been no other than Vishnu himself, the only onehimself, the only one who could have known that secret and he threw himself at his feet. Having liberated Shiva, he who could have known that secret and he threw himself at his feet. Having liberated Shiva, he asked him for one last gift: "I have b

asked him for one last gift: "I have been blessed by you with maneen blessed by you with many gifts; my last request is thaty gifts; my last request is that everyone remembers me adoring my head when I am dead." Shiva then brought his own son everyone remembers me adoring my head when I am dead." Shiva then brought his own son there and substituted his head with that of Gajasura.

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Gaze of Shani Gaze of Shani

A lesser known story from the

A lesser known story from the Brahma Vaivarta Purana Brahma Vaivarta Purana narrates a different version of Ganesha's narrates a different version of Ganesha's birth. On the insistence of Shiva, Parvati fasted for a year (

birth. On the insistence of Shiva, Parvati fasted for a year ( punyaka vrata punyaka vrata) to propitiate Vishnu so) to propitiate Vishnu so that he would grant her a

that he would grant her a son. Lord Vishnu, after the completion of the son. Lord Vishnu, after the completion of the sacrifice, announced thatsacrifice, announced that he would incarnate himself as her son in

he would incarnate himself as her son in every Kalpa (eon). Accordingly, every Kalpa (eon). Accordingly, Krishna was born toKrishna was born to Parvati as a charming infant. This event

Parvati as a charming infant. This event was celebrated with great enthusiasm and all the was celebrated with great enthusiasm and all the godsgods were invited to take a look at the baby. However Shani (Saturn), the son of Surya, hesitated to were invited to take a look at the baby. However Shani (Saturn), the son of Surya, hesitated to look at the bab

look at the baby since Shani was cursed with the y since Shani was cursed with the gaze of destruction. However Parvati insistedgaze of destruction. However Parvati insisted that he look at the baby, which Shani did, and immediately the infant's head fell off and flew off. that he look at the baby, which Shani did, and immediately the infant's head fell off and flew off. Seeing Shiva and Parvati grief-stricken, Vishnu rushed to the banks of the

Seeing Shiva and Parvati grief-stricken, Vishnu rushed to the banks of the Pushpa-Bhadra Pushpa-Bhadra River, River, from where he brought back the head of a young elephant. The head of the elephant was joined from where he brought back the head of a young elephant. The head of the elephant was joined with the headless body of Parvati's son, thus rev

with the headless body of Parvati's son, thus rev iving him. The infant was named iving him. The infant was named Ganesha andGanesha and all the Gods blessed Ganesha and wished

all the Gods blessed Ganesha and wished Him power and prosperity.Him power and prosperity.

Other versions Other versions

Another tale of Ganesha's birth relates to an incid

Another tale of Ganesha's birth relates to an incid ent in which Shiva slew Aditya, the ent in which Shiva slew Aditya, the son of ason of a sage. Shiva restored life to the dead boy, but this could not pacify the outraged sage Kashyapa, sage. Shiva restored life to the dead boy, but this could not pacify the outraged sage Kashyapa, who was one of the seven great Rishis. Kashyap cursed Shiva and declared that Shiva's son who was one of the seven great Rishis. Kashyap cursed Shiva and declared that Shiva's son would lose his head. When this happened, the head of

would lose his head. When this happened, the head of

Indra’s elephant

Indra’s elephant –

–

Iravatham - was used to Iravatham - was used to replace it.

replace it.

Still another tale states that on one occ

Still another tale states that on one occasion, while Parvati was bathing the asion, while Parvati was bathing the used water wasused water was thrown into the river Ganges. This water was drunk

thrown into the river Ganges. This water was drunk by the elephant-headed Goddess Malini, by the elephant-headed Goddess Malini, whowho gave birth to a baby with four arms and five elephant heads. The river goddess Ganga claimed gave birth to a baby with four arms and five elephant heads. The river goddess Ganga claimed him as her son, but Shiva declared him to be Parvati's son, reduced his five heads to one and him as her son, but Shiva declared him to be Parvati's son, reduced his five heads to one and enthroned him as the

enthroned him as the controller of obstaclescontroller of obstacles ( (VigneshaVignesha).).

Significance of the Ganesha Form

Ganesha's head symbolizes the

Ganesha's head symbolizes the Atman Atman or the soul, which is or the soul, which is the ultimate supreme reality ofthe ultimate supreme reality of human existence, and his human body signifies

human existence, and his human body signifies Maya Maya or the earthly existence of human beings. or the earthly existence of human beings. The elephant head denot

The elephant head denotes wisdom and its trunk representses wisdom and its trunk representsOmOm, the sound symbol of cosmic, the sound symbol of cosmic reality. In his upper right hand Ganesha h

reality. In his upper right hand Ganesha holds a goad, which helps him olds a goad, which helps him propel mankind forwardpropel mankind forward on the eternal path and remove obstacles from the way. The noose in Ganesha's left hand is a on the eternal path and remove obstacles from the way. The noose in Ganesha's left hand is a gentle implement to capture all difficulties.

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As explained below, the portrayal of Lord Ganesha as the blend of human and animal As explained below, the portrayal of Lord Ganesha as the blend of human and animal parts symbolizes the ideals of perfection as conceived by Hindu sages and illustrates some

parts symbolizes the ideals of perfection as conceived by Hindu sages and illustrates some philosophical concepts of profound spiritual significance.

philosophical concepts of profound spiritual significance.

Elephant head, wide mouth, and large ears:

Elephant head, wide mouth, and large ears: the large head of an elephant symbolizes the large head of an elephant symbolizes wisdom, understanding, and a discriminating intellect that one must possess to attain wisdom, understanding, and a discriminating intellect that one must possess to attain perfection in life. The wide mouth represents the natural human desire to enjoy life in the perfection in life. The wide mouth represents the natural human desire to enjoy life in the

world. The large ears signify that a perfect person

world. The large ears signify that a perfect person is the one who possesses a greatis the one who possesses a great capacity to listen to others and assimilate ideas.

capacity to listen to others and assimilate ideas.

The trunk and two tusks with the left tusk broken:

The trunk and two tusks with the left tusk broken: there is no known human there is no known human instrument that has an operating range as wide as

instrument that has an operating range as wide as that of an elephantthat of an elephant's trunk. It can uproot's trunk. It can uproot a tree and yet lift a needle

a tree and yet lift a needle off the ground. Likewise, the human off the ground. Likewise, the human mind must be strongmind must be strong enough to face the ups and downs of the external world and yet delicate enough to enough to face the ups and downs of the external world and yet delicate enough to explore the subtle realms of the inner world. Th

explore the subtle realms of the inner world. The two tusks denote the two e two tusks denote the two aspects of theaspects of the human personality, wisdom and emotion. The right tusk represents wisdom and the left human personality, wisdom and emotion. The right tusk represents wisdom and the left tusk represents emotion. The broken left tusk conv

tusk represents emotion. The broken left tusk conv eys the idea that one must ceys the idea that one must conqueronquer emotions with wisdom to attain perfection.

emotions with wisdom to attain perfection.

Elephant eyes:

Elephant eyes: the elephant e the elephant eyes are said to possess natural deceptiveness that allowsyes are said to possess natural deceptiveness that allows them to perceive objects to be bigger than what they really are. Thus the elephant eyes them to perceive objects to be bigger than what they really are. Thus the elephant eyes symbolize the idea that even if an individual gets "bigger and bigger" in wealth and symbolize the idea that even if an individual gets "bigger and bigger" in wealth and wisdom, he should perceive others to be b

wisdom, he should perceive others to be bigger than him; that is, surrender one's pigger than him; that is, surrender one's prideride and attain humility.

and attain humility.

The four arms and various objects in the four hands:

The four arms and various objects in the four hands: the four arms indicate that the the four arms indicate that the Lord is omnipresent and omnipotent. The left side of

Lord is omnipresent and omnipotent. The left side of the body symbolizes emotion andthe body symbolizes emotion and the right side symbolizes reason. An axe in

the right side symbolizes reason. An axe in the upper left hand and a the upper left hand and a lotus in the upperlotus in the upper right hand signify that in order to attain spiritual perfection, one

right hand signify that in order to attain spiritual perfection, one should cut worldlyshould cut worldly attachments and conquer emotions. This enables on

attachments and conquer emotions. This enables one to live in the world without e to live in the world without beingbeing affected by earthly temptations, just as a lotus remains in water but is

affected by earthly temptations, just as a lotus remains in water but is not affected by it. Anot affected by it. A tray of Laddus (a popular snack) near the

tray of Laddus (a popular snack) near the Lord denotes that He bestows wealth andLord denotes that He bestows wealth and prosperity upon His devotees. The lower right hand is shown in a blessing pose, which prosperity upon His devotees. The lower right hand is shown in a blessing pose, which

signifies that Ganesha always blesses His devotees. signifies that Ganesha always blesses His devotees.

A human body with a big belly:

A human body with a big belly: the human body possesses a human heart, which is a the human body possesses a human heart, which is a symbol of kindness and compassion toward all. Ganesha

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wearing red and yellow clothes. Yellow symbolizes purity, peace

wearing red and yellow clothes. Yellow symbolizes purity, peace and truthfulness. Redand truthfulness. Red symbolizes the activity in the world. These are the

symbolizes the activity in the world. These are the qualities of a perfect person whoqualities of a perfect person who performs all duties in the world, with puri

performs all duties in the world, with purity, peace, and truthfulness. The big bellyty, peace, and truthfulness. The big belly signifies that a perfect individual must have a large

signifies that a perfect individual must have a large capacity to face all pleasant andcapacity to face all pleasant and unpleasant experiences of the world.

unpleasant experiences of the world.

A mouse sitting near the feet of Ganesha and gazing at the tray of Laddus:

A mouse sitting near the feet of Ganesha and gazing at the tray of Laddus: a mouse a mouse symbolizes the ego that can nibble

symbolizes the ego that can nibble all that is good and noall that is good and noble in a person. A ble in a person. A mouse sittingmouse sitting near the feet of Ganesha indicates that a

near the feet of Ganesha indicates that a perfect person is one who has coperfect person is one who has conquered his (ornquered his (or her) ego. A mouse gazing at the Laddus, but not consuming them, denotes that a purified her) ego. A mouse gazing at the Laddus, but not consuming them, denotes that a purified or controlled ego can live in

or controlled ego can live in the world without being affected by the wothe world without being affected by the worldly temptations.rldly temptations. The mouse is also the vehicle of

The mouse is also the vehicle of Ganesha, signifying that one must control ego in Ganesha, signifying that one must control ego in orderorder for wisdom to shine forth.

for wisdom to shine forth.

Right foot dangling over the left foot:

Right foot dangling over the left foot: as stated above, the left side of the body as stated above, the left side of the body symbolizes emotion and the right side symbolizes reason and kno

symbolizes emotion and the right side symbolizes reason and kno wledge. The right footwledge. The right foot dangling over the left foot illustrates that in order to live a

dangling over the left foot illustrates that in order to live a successful life one shouldsuccessful life one should utilize knowledge and reason to overcome emotions.

utilize knowledge and reason to overcome emotions.

The broken tusk that Ganesha holds

The broken tusk that Ganesha holds like a pen in his lower right hand is a symbol of like a pen in his lower right hand is a symbol of sacrifice, which he broke for writing the Mahabha

sacrifice, which he broke for writing the Mahabharata. The rosary in his other handrata. The rosary in his other hand suggests that the pursuit of knowledge should be

suggests that the pursuit of knowledge should be continuous. Thecontinuous. Theladdooladdoo (sweet) he holds (sweet) he holds in his trunk indicates that one must discover the sweetness of the

in his trunk indicates that one must discover the sweetness of the Atman Atman. His fan-like ears. His fan-like ears convey that he is all ears to

convey that he is all ears to our petition. The snake that runs round our petition. The snake that runs round his waist representshis waist represents energy in all forms. And he is humble

energy in all forms. And he is humble enough to ride the lowest of cenough to ride the lowest of creatures, a mouse.reatures, a mouse.

Stories of Ganesha: Stories of Ganesha: Ganesh and Kubera Ganesh and Kubera

Kubera, the god of wealth, was very proud of his boundless fortune. One day, he organized a Kubera, the god of wealth, was very proud of his boundless fortune. One day, he organized a gorgeous dinner. Among the guests, the divine couple, Shiva and Pârvatî, with their son Ganesh, gorgeous dinner. Among the guests, the divine couple, Shiva and Pârvatî, with their son Ganesh, were present.

were present.

The later, still a child, started to eat and

The later, still a child, started to eat and he appeared quickly to he appeared quickly to be insatiable. Soon, the otherbe insatiable. Soon, the other guests found plates and dishes empty. Not satisfied with all the

guests found plates and dishes empty. Not satisfied with all the available food, Ganesh started toavailable food, Ganesh started to devour plates and dishes, the furniture and

devour plates and dishes, the furniture and all the content of Alakapuri, the all the content of Alakapuri, the main city of Kubera.main city of Kubera. When he achieved to gulp down the whole, the child Ganesh threatened to swallow Kubera When he achieved to gulp down the whole, the child Ganesh threatened to swallow Kubera himself. Frightened, the god of wealth rushed

himself. Frightened, the god of wealth rushed forward to Shiva to implore his help, sinceforward to Shiva to implore his help, since Ganesh

Ganesh

a’s

voracious appetite seemed to be unlimited. voracious appetite seemed to be unlimited.

The remedy was simple but spectacular. Shiva gave his son a handful of roasted cereal grains. The remedy was simple but spectacular. Shiva gave his son a handful of roasted cereal grains. Ganesh ate it and, wonderfully, his hunger stopped immediately.

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This legend teaches us that a handful of common food, given with love, and eaten with devotion, This legend teaches us that a handful of common food, given with love, and eaten with devotion, is more important and more sustaining than the b

is more important and more sustaining than the banquet, with egoanquet, with ego

Ganesha defeats Gana Ganesha defeats Gana

Gananayaka is the lord of Ganas or one who defeats Gana. A beautiful son named Gana was Gananayaka is the lord of Ganas or one who defeats Gana. A beautiful son named Gana was born to the King Abhijit and queen Gunavati. He was very bright and strong. He was a great born to the King Abhijit and queen Gunavati. He was very bright and strong. He was a great

devotee of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva, pleased with his devotion granted him some boons. devotee of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva, pleased with his devotion granted him some boons. However, this increased Gana's ego. He soon fell into bad company.

However, this increased Gana's ego. He soon fell into bad company. One day he visited sage

One day he visited sage Kapila's ashram. Kapila had a gem cKapila's ashram. Kapila had a gem called Chintamani that was wishalled Chintamani that was wish fulfilling and could provide food for thousands. When

fulfilling and could provide food for thousands. When Gana saw this, he wanted to Gana saw this, he wanted to possess thepossess the gem. Kapila did not want

gem. Kapila did not want to give it to him. But Gana to give it to him. But Gana forcibly took it away from him. forcibly took it away from him. KapilaKapila prayed to Lord Ganesha. Ganesha appeared in Gana's dream and cut off his head. Gana, on prayed to Lord Ganesha. Ganesha appeared in Gana's dream and cut off his head. Gana, on waking up, did not repent but became angry and took his army to kill Kapila. Gana's father, waking up, did not repent but became angry and took his army to kill Kapila. Gana's father, Abhijit, pleaded with Gana to give back Kapila is gem but Gana did not heed the advice. Abhijit, pleaded with Gana to give back Kapila is gem but Gana did not heed the advice.

However, on reaching Kapila's ashram he found that Ganesha had assembled an army. In a fierce However, on reaching Kapila's ashram he found that Ganesha had assembled an army. In a fierce fight, Gana was killed by Ganesha and Ganesha restored the

fight, Gana was killed by Ganesha and Ganesha restored the

―Chintamani

" to Kapila. " to Kapila.

Kapila, however, gave it back to Ganesha saying that even a small gem like this could cause Kapila, however, gave it back to Ganesha saying that even a small gem like this could cause trouble, as wealth is the root of many p

trouble, as wealth is the root of many problems in this world. Kapila requested Ganesha to stayroblems in this world. Kapila requested Ganesha to stay back. From then on, this place (Theur near Pune) was called 'Chintamani Vinayaka'.

back. From then on, this place (Theur near Pune) was called 'Chintamani Vinayaka'.

What does a snake ar

What does a snake around Ganesha’s stomach represent?ound Ganesha’s stomach represent?

Ganesh Chaturthi or Ganesha’s Birthday comes on the 4th day of Bhadarva Shukla

-Paksh of-Paksh of Hindu calendar in (August/September). Milk is offered to idols of Lord Ganesh at home and at Hindu calendar in (August/September). Milk is offered to idols of Lord Ganesh at home and at temples, and worshippers visit Ganesh te

temples, and worshippers visit Ganesh te

mples for Ganesh Puja. Ganesha’s vehicle is the

Mooshak.

Mooshak. Lord Ganesh is very fLord Ganesh is very fond of modak. On one of His birtond of modak. On one of His birthdays Mata Parvati, cookedhdays Mata Parvati, cooked for him twenty-one types of delicious food and a lot of modak. Ganesha ate so much that even for him twenty-one types of delicious food and a lot of modak. Ganesha ate so much that even his big belly could not contain it. Then he set out moving on his mouse at night. Suddenly the his big belly could not contain it. Then he set out moving on his mouse at night. Suddenly the mouse stumbled as it had seen a snake and became frightened with the result Ganesha fell down. mouse stumbled as it had seen a snake and became frightened with the result Ganesha fell down. His stomach burst open and all the sweet puddings came out. But Ganesha stuffed them back His stomach burst open and all the sweet puddings came out. But Ganesha stuffed them back into his stomach and, caught hold of the snake and tied it around his belly.

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The symbology behind the mouse and snake and Ganesha’s big belly and its relationship to his

birthday is highly philosophic. The whole cosmos is known to be the belly of Ganesha (hence, birthday is highly philosophic. The whole cosmos is known to be the belly of Ganesha (hence,

his other name is Mahodara) .Parvati or Shak

his other name is Mahodara) .Parvati or Shakti is the primordial energy. The seven realms abovti is the primordial energy. The seven realms above,e, seven realms below and seven oceans, are inside the cosmic belly of Ganesha, held together by seven realms below and seven oceans, are inside the cosmic belly of Ganesha, held together by the cosmic energy (kundalini ) symbolized as a huge snake which Ganesha ties around Him. The the cosmic energy (kundalini ) symbolized as a huge snake which Ganesha ties around Him. The mouse is nothing but our ego. Ganesha, using the mouse as a vehicle, exemplifies the need to mouse is nothing but our ego. Ganesha, using the mouse as a vehicle, exemplifies the need to control our ego. One who has controlled the ego has Ganesha consciousness or

control our ego. One who has controlled the ego has Ganesha consciousness or God-consciousness.

consciousness.

Ganesha and the River Kaveri Ganesha and the River Kaveri

In order to supply water to the

In order to supply water to the arid southern regions, the Sage Agastya, with arid southern regions, the Sage Agastya, with the blessings ofthe blessings of Brahma, got from Shiva sacred water

Brahma, got from Shiva sacred water which filled his kamandalam.which filled his kamandalam.

He journeyed to southern regions of the country, hoping to find a suitable place to create a high He journeyed to southern regions of the country, hoping to find a suitable place to create a high flow river. Thus he reached the Kodagu (Coorg) mountains.

flow river. Thus he reached the Kodagu (Coorg) mountains.

On the way, he hailed a young boy who was passing by. In fact, the boy was Ganesh disguised. On the way, he hailed a young boy who was passing by. In fact, the boy was Ganesh disguised. The Sage requested the boy to carry carefully his water pot, because he wanted to perform the The Sage requested the boy to carry carefully his water pot, because he wanted to perform the evening prayers.

evening prayers.

Ganesh was aware that Agastya expected

Ganesh was aware that Agastya expected to create a river; the place whto create a river; the place where they were seemed toere they were seemed to be favorable. So, he put the kamandalam on the ground. A crow, p

be favorable. So, he put the kamandalam on the ground. A crow, p assing by, landed on the potassing by, landed on the pot edge. When he came back, Agastya expelled the bird which while taking off, spilled the

edge. When he came back, Agastya expelled the bird which while taking off, spilled the kamandalam. When it poured, this small quantity

kamandalam. When it poured, this small quantity of water turned into river Kaveri.of water turned into river Kaveri.

The place, known as Talakaveri is the origin of the river and considered as a sacred place. The place, known as Talakaveri is the origin of the river and considered as a sacred place.

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Ganesh and Ravana Ganesh and Ravana

One day, Ravana undertook penance and pleased at his sincere Shiva appeared to him. Ravana One day, Ravana undertook penance and pleased at his sincere Shiva appeared to him. Ravana requested a favor. He wanted that his kingdom and himself could never be damaged or

requested a favor. He wanted that his kingdom and himself could never be damaged or

destroyed. As a present, Shiva gave him a Shiva Lingam, the symbol of Shiva; and ordered him destroyed. As a present, Shiva gave him a Shiva Lingam, the symbol of Shiva; and ordered him to take it to his kingdom and to place it in a temple after adequate rituals. From then on he would to take it to his kingdom and to place it in a temple after adequate rituals. From then on he would become unconquerable. But there was a prerequisite, that whatever happened, Ravana

become unconquerable. But there was a prerequisite, that whatever happened, Ravana ought notought not to lay down the Lingam on the floor anywhere on his way since he will not be able to displace it to lay down the Lingam on the floor anywhere on his way since he will not be able to displace it later.

later.

Overjoyed, Ravana welcomed the Lingam. However, the Devas (Gods) were afraid of the Overjoyed, Ravana welcomed the Lingam. However, the Devas (Gods) were afraid of the powers that Ravana could obtain and sought the help of Ganesha. As a young Brahmin boy powers that Ravana could obtain and sought the help of Ganesha. As a young Brahmin boy

Ganesha followed Ravana. As it was nearing evening Ravana wanted to perform the evening Ganesha followed Ravana. As it was nearing evening Ravana wanted to perform the evening prayers. Not to lay down the Lingam on the ground, as expressly instructed by Shiva, Râvana prayers. Not to lay down the Lingam on the ground, as expressly instructed by Shiva, Râvana called the young Brahmin coming that way, and asked him to keep the stone Lingam just for a called the young Brahmin coming that way, and asked him to keep the stone Lingam just for a moment. As soon as Râvana entrusted him

moment. As soon as Râvana entrusted him the Lingam, the boy cried outhe Lingam, the boy cried out for help three times.t for help three times. Getting no reply, he put the Lingam on the ground.

Getting no reply, he put the Lingam on the ground.

When Ravan came back, he was very angry and he dismissed the boy and tried to pull the When Ravan came back, he was very angry and he dismissed the boy and tried to pull the Lingam. He could not lift it but

Lingam. He could not lift it but was able to pull it a further when the was able to pull it a further when the Lingam attained the shapeLingam attained the shape

of a Cow’s ear

The place where the Lingam was deposited is called Gokarna, - the ear of a cow - and is located The place where the Lingam was deposited is called Gokarna, - the ear of a cow - and is located on the Karnataka western coast; it is a

on the Karnataka western coast; it is a one of the important saivite shrine.one of the important saivite shrine.

Ganesh and Lord Shiva Ganesh and Lord Shiva

When Ganesh appeared, as the son born from Shiva's mind, the later decided that Ganesha When Ganesh appeared, as the son born from Shiva's mind, the later decided that Ganesha should be worshipped by anybody wishing to get success. Even worshipping other gods would should be worshipped by anybody wishing to get success. Even worshipping other gods would be inefficient if prior worship to Ganesha had not been achieved.

be inefficient if prior worship to Ganesha had not been achieved. Thus, when Shiva left to fight the demon

Thus, when Shiva left to fight the demons of the Tripura city, he fos of the Tripura city, he forgot his own rule and rushedrgot his own rule and rushed to the battle. However, when he embarked on his carriage, the wheel peg broke and the car was to the battle. However, when he embarked on his carriage, the wheel peg broke and the car was stopped.

stopped.

Abashed that such an accident could happen to him, Shiva realized that he had forgotten to pray Abashed that such an accident could happen to him, Shiva realized that he had forgotten to pray Ganesha before his departure, and this

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son's name and could proceed to the Tripurâtanka battle which he won successfully. son's name and could proceed to the Tripurâtanka battle which he won successfully.

The Broken Ganesha Tusk The Broken Ganesha Tusk

Several legends explain how Ganesha broke his right tusk, which gives him the name of Several legends explain how Ganesha broke his right tusk, which gives him the name of Ekadanta "The Lord who has only one tusk".

Ekadanta "The Lord who has only one tusk".

The first legend (in the

The first legend (in the Brahmanda-Purana Brahmanda-Purana) is related to a battle between Ganesha and) is related to a battle between Ganesha and Parashurâma. Parashurama

Parashurâma. Parashurama was one was one of of VishnuVishnu

’s

incarnations (avatara), born on earth to incarnations (avatara), born on earth to teachteach wisdom to the governing class, the Kshatriya , who had become arrogant and oppressed people. wisdom to the governing class, the Kshatriya , who had become arrogant and oppressed people. Parashurama meditated on Shiva and got the divine axe, Parashu. This axe helped him to fight Parashurama meditated on Shiva and got the divine axe, Parashu. This axe helped him to fight against all the corrupted princes.

against all the corrupted princes.

Deeply grateful to Shiva, he went to Mount Kailash to bow to his guru. But Ganesha, who was Deeply grateful to Shiva, he went to Mount Kailash to bow to his guru. But Ganesha, who was guarding the entrance of the palace, did not allow him to proceed. Ganesha told him to wait for guarding the entrance of the palace, did not allow him to proceed. Ganesha told him to wait for the Shiva permission. Parashurâma thought: "I am a Shiva devotee; such a rule cannot be applied the Shiva permission. Parashurâma thought: "I am a Shiva devotee; such a rule cannot be applied to me". With Ganesha persisting to bar the wa

to me". With Ganesha persisting to bar the wa y, Parashurama, stroke violently with his axe andy, Parashurama, stroke violently with his axe and broke Ganesha tusk.

broke Ganesha tusk.

Then Shiva and Parvati arrived and blamed Parashurâma who bowed down before Ganesh and Then Shiva and Parvati arrived and blamed Parashurâma who bowed down before Ganesh and supplicated to obtain his forgiveness and blessing. Then on Ganesha was named Ekadanta "The supplicated to obtain his forgiveness and blessing. Then on Ganesha was named Ekadanta "The Lord with one tusk".

Lord with one tusk".

According to another legend, Ganesh

According to another legend, Ganesha broke himself his tusk during the battle a broke himself his tusk during the battle againstagainst

Gajamukhâsura (the elephant-headed Asura). Taking the advice of Shukracharya, the Asura Gajamukhâsura (the elephant-headed Asura). Taking the advice of Shukracharya, the Asura guru, this demon followed severe penances. Thus, he got unconquerable powers from Shiva. But guru, this demon followed severe penances. Thus, he got unconquerable powers from Shiva. But he misused those powers to harass the gods who went to Ganesha and requested his help.

he misused those powers to harass the gods who went to Ganesha and requested his help. Ganesha did not hesitate to give b

Ganesha did not hesitate to give battle to this demon. During the fight, he attle to this demon. During the fight, he understood that theunderstood that the demon could not be defeated, because of his particular powers. Then, Ganesha broke his right demon could not be defeated, because of his particular powers. Then, Ganesha broke his right tusk and threw it to Gajamukhâsura. He pursued him and converted him in a mouse. Then he tusk and threw it to Gajamukhâsura. He pursued him and converted him in a mouse. Then he rode this mouse, which he used as a mount, keeping it under control.

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Ganesha, the scribe for

Mahabharat

a

The most interesting story concerning Ganesha is the belief

The most interesting story concerning Ganesha is the belief that he was the scribe who that he was the scribe who wrote thewrote the

Mahabharata. Sage Vyasa, the author of this epic, was advised by Brahma, on whom he

meditated, to ask Ganesha to be the scribe to whom he could dictate the epic in verse form.

Ganapati appeared before Brahma and agreed to write, but on one condition, that Vyasa would

dictate continuously without pause. Vyasa agreed but he had his own condition, and that

Ganesha should understand every word

Ganesha should understand every word and thought and its implications and thought and its implications before writing it down.before writing it down.

Whenever Vyasa found Ganesha had completed writing a verse, he would dictate a verse with

very complex meanings so that Ganesha had to stop and think it over.

This gave Vyasa time to compose a few stanzas mentally and dictate them when Ganesha was

ready. Ganesha used his broken

ready. Ganesha used his broken tusk to write the Mahabharata, the lontusk to write the Mahabharata, the longest epic the world hasgest epic the world has

ever known. Is it surprising then that with Vyasa a

ever known. Is it surprising then that with Vyasa as the poet, Ganesha as ths the poet, Ganesha as the scribe and Krishnae scribe and Krishna

as the main hero, this epic has few equals in the world.

This story also has a lesson for mankind, th

This story also has a lesson for mankind, that the Mahabharata should not at the Mahabharata should not be hurriedly read. Itbe hurriedly read. It

should be understood and digested, heard patiently and ruminated upon. In fact there is a

superstition that the Mahabharata should never be

superstition that the Mahabharata should never be read, only listened to, one read, only listened to, one small part at a time.small part at a time.

Only then can one understand the depth of the meanings underlying the events in the epic.

Ganesha and Lord Vishnu

One day, Vishnu found ou

One day, Vishnu found out that his Valamburi Shankha had disappet that his Valamburi Shankha had disappeared. He felt himself veryared. He felt himself very annoyed. After some time, he heard the typical sound of a conch far away and recognized annoyed. After some time, he heard the typical sound of a conch far away and recognized immediately that it was his own instrument. The sound came from the Mount Kailash. immediately that it was his own instrument. The sound came from the Mount Kailash.

He meditated on Lord Shiva who came in front of him and declared that if he wanted to get his He meditated on Lord Shiva who came in front of him and declared that if he wanted to get his conch back, he had first to address a invocation to god Valamburi Ganesha (a Ganesha form with conch back, he had first to address a invocation to god Valamburi Ganesha (a Ganesha form with

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a right-turned trunk). Thus, Vishnu performed the puja and Ganesha sent back the conch to his a right-turned trunk). Thus, Vishnu performed the puja and Ganesha sent back the conch to his owner who was very happy to recover it.

owner who was very happy to recover it.

According to another story Vishnu to get back his conch, swallowed by Ganesha made several According to another story Vishnu to get back his conch, swallowed by Ganesha made several acrobats before Ganesha to make Ganesha to laugh and cough out the conch. This practice is still acrobats before Ganesha to make Ganesha to laugh and cough out the conch. This practice is still followed by some devotees who perform sit ups before Ganesha.

followed by some devotees who perform sit ups before Ganesha.

Ganesha and the Moon

It is said that one day Ganesha,

It is said that one day Ganesha, after having received from many of his deafter having received from many of his devotees an enormousvotees an enormous amount of sweets (

amount of sweets ( Modak Modak ), in order to better digest this incredible mass of food, decided ), in order to better digest this incredible mass of food, decided to goto go for a ride. He got on the

for a ride. He got on the mouse which he used as mouse which he used as his vehicle and took off. It was a his vehicle and took off. It was a magnificentmagnificent night and the moon was resplendent. Suddenly a snake appeared out of nowhere and nearly night and the moon was resplendent. Suddenly a snake appeared out of nowhere and nearly frightened the mouse to death, causing

frightened the mouse to death, causing it to jump and Ganesha was thrown it to jump and Ganesha was thrown off his mount.off his mount. Ganesha's huge stomach smashed against the

Ganesha's huge stomach smashed against the ground so forcefully that it burst open and ground so forcefully that it burst open and all of theall of the sweets that he had eaten were scattered

sweets that he had eaten were scattered around him. Nonetheless, he was around him. Nonetheless, he was too intelligent to gettoo intelligent to get angry about this accident and,

angry about this accident and, without wasting any time in useless lamentations, he tried towithout wasting any time in useless lamentations, he tried to remedy the situation as best he could. He took the serpent which had caused the accident and remedy the situation as best he could. He took the serpent which had caused the accident and used it as a belt to keep

used it as a belt to keep his stomach closed and bahis stomach closed and bandage the injury. Satisfied by this solution, hendage the injury. Satisfied by this solution, he remounted his mouse and continued his excursion. Chandra (Moon God) saw the whole scene remounted his mouse and continued his excursion. Chandra (Moon God) saw the whole scene and laughed. Ganesha, being the short-tempered one, cursed Chandra for his arrogance and and laughed. Ganesha, being the short-tempered one, cursed Chandra for his arrogance and breaking off one of his tusks, hurled it against the Moon, slashing its luminous fa

breaking off one of his tusks, hurled it against the Moon, slashing its luminous face in two. Hece in two. He then cursed it, decreeing that anyone who happens to see the moon will incur bad luck. Hearing then cursed it, decreeing that anyone who happens to see the moon will incur bad luck. Hearing this, Chandra realised his folly and asked for forgiveness from Ganesha.

this, Chandra realised his folly and asked for forgiveness from Ganesha. Ganesha relented andGanesha relented and since a curse cannot be revoked, only softened it. Ganesha softened his curse such that the moon since a curse cannot be revoked, only softened it. Ganesha softened his curse such that the moon would wax and wane in intensity every fifteen days and anyone who looks at the moon during would wax and wane in intensity every fifteen days and anyone who looks at the moon during Ganesh Chaturthi would incur bad-luck.

Ganesh Chaturthi would incur bad-luck.

Vahanas

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The earliest Ganesha images are without a

The earliest Ganesha images are without a Vahana (mount/vehicle). Of the eight incarnations ofVahana (mount/vehicle). Of the eight incarnations of Ganesha described in the

Ganesha described in the Mudgala Purana Mudgala Purana, Ganesha has a mouse in five of them, uses a lion in, Ganesha has a mouse in five of them, uses a lion in his incarnation as

his incarnation as VakratundaVakratunda, a peacock in his incarnation of, a peacock in his incarnation of VikataVikata, and Sesha, the divine, and Sesha, the divine serpent, in his incarnation as

serpent, in his incarnation as VighnarajaVighnaraja..]]Of the four incarnations of Ganesha listed in theOf the four incarnations of Ganesha listed in the Ganesha Purana

Ganesha Purana,, Mohotkata Mohotkata has a lion, has a lion,

Mayūreśvara

has a peacock, Dhumraketu has a peacock, Dhumraketu has a horse, has a horse, and

and GajananaGajanana has a rat. Jain de has a rat. Jain depictions of Ganesha show his vahana variously as a pictions of Ganesha show his vahana variously as a mouse,mouse, elephant, tortoise, ram, or peacock.

elephant, tortoise, ram, or peacock.

Ganesha is often shown riding on or attend

Ganesha is often shown riding on or attended by a mouse. ed by a mouse. The mouse as a mount The mouse as a mount first appears infirst appears in written sources in the Mastya Purana and later

written sources in the Mastya Purana and later in thein the Brahmananda Purana Brahmananda Purana and and GaneshaGanesha Purana

Purana, where Ganesha uses it as his v, where Ganesha uses it as his vehicle only in his last incarnation. The ehicle only in his last incarnation. The GanapathiGanapathi

Atharvashirsa includes a meditation verse on Ganesha that describes the mouse appearing on his Atharvashirsa includes a meditation verse on Ganesha that describes the mouse appearing on his flag. The names

flag. The names

Mū

ṣ ṣ

akavāhana

(mouse-mount) and (mouse-mount) and

Ākhuketana

(rat-banner) appear in the (rat-banner) appear in the

Ganesha sahasranamam. Ganesha sahasranamam. The mouse is interpret

The mouse is interpreted in several ways. It is ed in several ways. It is interpreted that interpreted that GaGaṇṇapati's mouse symbolizesapati's mouse symbolizes

―tamoguna‖ to

those who wish to overcome desires and those who wish to overcome desires and be less selfish The Sanskrit wordbe less selfish The Sanskrit word

mū

shika shika (mouse) is derived from the root (mouse) is derived from the root

mū

ṣ ṣ (stealing, robbing). It was essential to subdue the (stealing, robbing). It was essential to subdue the

rat as a destructive pest, a type o

rat as a destructive pest, a type off vighnavighna (impediment) that needed to be overcome. According to (impediment) that needed to be overcome. According to this theory, showing Ganesha as master of the

this theory, showing Ganesha as master of the rat demonstrates his function asrat demonstrates his function as VigneshvaraVigneshvara (Lord of Obstacles

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The Two Shaktis of Lord Ganesha and

Ganesha's marital status:

There is a confusion regarding the two

There is a confusion regarding the two consorts of Lord Ganesha: Buddhi and consorts of Lord Ganesha: Buddhi and Siddhi, withSiddhi, with whom He is often represented. Buddhi is wisdom,

whom He is often represented. Buddhi is wisdom, or more precisely sagacity, the intelligent andor more precisely sagacity, the intelligent and discriminating use of knowledge. Siddhi is success, or more p

discriminating use of knowledge. Siddhi is success, or more p recisely fulfillment,recisely fulfillment, accomplishment or attainment. While in North India Ganesha is

accomplishment or attainment. While in North India Ganesha is conceived as having twoconceived as having two consorts, in the South He is looked upon as a

consorts, in the South He is looked upon as a brahmachari,brahmachari, or bachelor. Esoterically, it must be or bachelor. Esoterically, it must be stressed that none of the Gods has a

stressed that none of the Gods has a wife. Their consorts are not to be wife. Their consorts are not to be considered as separateconsidered as separate from them, but as aspects of their being, as

from them, but as aspects of their being, as their Shaktitheir Shakti , , or power. There are no husbands and or power. There are no husbands and wives in the vast super conscious realms of the T

wives in the vast super conscious realms of the T hird World, or Sivaloka. Thus, Buddhi ahird World, or Sivaloka. Thus, Buddhi andnd Siddhi are properly seen as the

Siddhi are properly seen as the two shaktis -- wisdom and success -- of the two shaktis -- wisdom and success -- of the great Ganesha, andgreat Ganesha, and not as His so-called consorts. These two represent benefits or boons a

not as His so-called consorts. These two represent benefits or boons a ccrued by His worshipers.ccrued by His worshipers. In an inner sense, Buddhi and Siddhi are the

In an inner sense, Buddhi and Siddhi are the idaida and and pingala nadis, pingala nadis, the female and male currents, the female and male currents, both of which are embodied within the being of Ganesha, corresponding to Valli and Devayani, both of which are embodied within the being of Ganesha, corresponding to Valli and Devayani,

the mythological consorts of Lord Murugan. the mythological consorts of Lord Murugan.

The subject of considerable scholarly review varies widely in m

The subject of considerable scholarly review varies widely in m ythological stories. One patternythological stories. One pattern of myths identifies Ganesha as an unmarried

of myths identifies Ganesha as an unmarried

―Brahmacharin‖

This view is common in southernThis view is common in southern India and parts of northern India. Another pattern

India and parts of northern India. Another pattern associates him with the concepts ofassociates him with the concepts of Buddhi Buddhi (intellect),

(intellect), SiddhiSiddhi (spiritual power), and (spiritual power), and Riddhi Riddhi (prosperity); these qualities are sometimes (prosperity); these qualities are sometimes personified as goddesses, said to be Ganesha's wives. He also may be shown with a single personified as goddesses, said to be Ganesha's wives. He also may be shown with a single

consort or a nameless servant (Sanskrit:

daşi

). Another pattern connects Ganesha with the). Another pattern connects Ganesha with the goddess of culture and the arts, Saraswati or

goddess of culture and the arts, Saraswati or

Śarda

(particularly in Maharastra) He is also (particularly in Maharastra) He is also associated with the goddess of luck and

associated with the goddess of luck and prosperity, Lakshmi Another pattern, mainly prevalent inprosperity, Lakshmi Another pattern, mainly prevalent in the Bengal region, links Ganesha with the banana tree, Kala Bo